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Toe to Toe
It takes two to tango.
Allegra Hart has been working her whole life to achieve one goal: become a principal ballerina. When her director starts holding auditions for the lead role in the company’s latest production, Allegra sees this as her chance—maybe her last chance.
The catch? The director wants someone with sex appeal, and he doesn’t think she’s up to the task. Determined to prove him wrong, Allegra enlists the help of the lead dancer of an all-male revue, Cord Donovan, a classically trained dancer who is also the sexiest man she’s ever met. In exchange for lessons on how to ramp up her sex appeal, she promises to help Cord choreograph a new partner piece for his show.
As they practice their moves on and off the stage, Allegra and Cord find themselves battling a growing attraction, all the more illicit because Cord has sworn to never partner with a ballerina. Allegra is determined not to let a man derail her career, but what if she could have both love and success? Or will her involvement with Cord jeopardize everything she’s worked for?
Allegra Hart has been working her whole life to achieve one goal: become a principal ballerina. When her director starts holding auditions for the lead role in the company’s latest production, Allegra sees this as her chance—maybe her last chance.
The catch? The director wants someone with sex appeal, and he doesn’t think she’s up to the task. Determined to prove him wrong, Allegra enlists the help of the lead dancer of an all-male revue, Cord Donovan, a classically trained dancer who is also the sexiest man she’s ever met. In exchange for lessons on how to ramp up her sex appeal, she promises to help Cord choreograph a new partner piece for his show.
As they practice their moves on and off the stage, Allegra and Cord find themselves battling a growing attraction, all the more illicit because Cord has sworn to never partner with a ballerina. Allegra is determined not to let a man derail her career, but what if she could have both love and success? Or will her involvement with Cord jeopardize everything she’s worked for?
336 pages, Paperback
First published March 10, 2026
161 people are currently reading
16816 people want to read
About the author
Falon Ballard
9 books2,083 followersFalon Ballard is a Los Angeles native who has been writing stories her whole life. After graduating with a degree in Creative Writing, Falon embarked on an eight-year teaching adventure before opening her own event planning business. When she’s not trolling Etsy for the latest merch from her favorite fandoms, she’s hanging out at Disneyland with a pretzel and beer in hand.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,126 reviews
March 10, 2026
╰┈➤ 4 stars!
FIRST BOOK OF FALON BALLARD I’VE READ AND IT DEFINITELY WON’T BE THE LAST!!
allegra hart has spent her entire life chasing one dream—becoming a principal ballerina. when her company opens auditions for the lead role in their latest production, she knows this might be her best, and possibly last, chance to prove herself.
the problem? her director insists the role requires undeniable sex appeal, something he doesn’t believe allegra has. determined to prove him wrong, she turns to cord donovan, a classically trained dancer who now headlines an all-male revue and happens to be the most magnetic man she’s ever met. in exchange for helping her embrace a more sensual stage presence, allegra agrees to assist him in choreographing a new partner routine for his show.
as rehearsals push them closer, the line between practice and passion begins to blur. but cord has sworn never to partner with a ballerina, and allegra refuses to let romance derail her career. still, the question lingers: could she have both the career she’s always wanted and the love she never expected—or will falling for cord cost her everything?
now, let’s talk about the characters and my thoughts:
୨ৎ allegra. she’s the first ballerina fmc i’ve ever read about, and i truly admire her. Her dedication is insane—this woman is so driven to succeed that she refuses to stop until she reaches her goal of becoming a principal ballerina. every scene that described her dancing left me in awe.
୨ৎ cord. his passion for dancing is unreal. and honestly, he’s so sexy it’s crazy. there’s one scene in particular that had me listening to pony while reading, and iykyk!
what i really appreciated was how their struggles were written with such care and realism. keep note of the trigger warning because it could truly be triggering for some readers.
cord’s journey especially was heavy at times, but i loved how noah and chloe—his friend and twin—played the role of knocking sense into him. sometimes, all it takes is that one friend or twin to make you see things clearly, and that’s what they did for him.
as for allegra and cord’s relationship, i liked the pacing. it wasn’t rushed, but it didn’t drag either. it developed naturally, and it always makes me wonder how dancers don’t fall in love more often since dancing itself is such a vulnerable and intimate form of art. their connection reflected that beautifully.
last, allegra and cord’s relationships with their siblings, especially cord’s bond with his twin, added so much depth. they’ve both been through so much, and having that family support made their stories even more meaningful. i’ve always loved reading about strong sibling bonds, and this book highlighted that in such a touching way.
Thank you to NetGalley, Putnam, and the author for the ARC in exchange of my honest review.
・。・。・。・。・。・。・。・。・。・。・。・。・
pre-read:
my first ever falon ballard book, and it’s an arc! i requested this book because of it’s blurb and cover and i actually think that i’ll enjoy it a lot for some reason! 👀🩰
FIRST BOOK OF FALON BALLARD I’VE READ AND IT DEFINITELY WON’T BE THE LAST!!
allegra hart has spent her entire life chasing one dream—becoming a principal ballerina. when her company opens auditions for the lead role in their latest production, she knows this might be her best, and possibly last, chance to prove herself.
the problem? her director insists the role requires undeniable sex appeal, something he doesn’t believe allegra has. determined to prove him wrong, she turns to cord donovan, a classically trained dancer who now headlines an all-male revue and happens to be the most magnetic man she’s ever met. in exchange for helping her embrace a more sensual stage presence, allegra agrees to assist him in choreographing a new partner routine for his show.
as rehearsals push them closer, the line between practice and passion begins to blur. but cord has sworn never to partner with a ballerina, and allegra refuses to let romance derail her career. still, the question lingers: could she have both the career she’s always wanted and the love she never expected—or will falling for cord cost her everything?
now, let’s talk about the characters and my thoughts:
୨ৎ allegra. she’s the first ballerina fmc i’ve ever read about, and i truly admire her. Her dedication is insane—this woman is so driven to succeed that she refuses to stop until she reaches her goal of becoming a principal ballerina. every scene that described her dancing left me in awe.
୨ৎ cord. his passion for dancing is unreal. and honestly, he’s so sexy it’s crazy. there’s one scene in particular that had me listening to pony while reading, and iykyk!
what i really appreciated was how their struggles were written with such care and realism. keep note of the trigger warning because it could truly be triggering for some readers.
cord’s journey especially was heavy at times, but i loved how noah and chloe—his friend and twin—played the role of knocking sense into him. sometimes, all it takes is that one friend or twin to make you see things clearly, and that’s what they did for him.
as for allegra and cord’s relationship, i liked the pacing. it wasn’t rushed, but it didn’t drag either. it developed naturally, and it always makes me wonder how dancers don’t fall in love more often since dancing itself is such a vulnerable and intimate form of art. their connection reflected that beautifully.
last, allegra and cord’s relationships with their siblings, especially cord’s bond with his twin, added so much depth. they’ve both been through so much, and having that family support made their stories even more meaningful. i’ve always loved reading about strong sibling bonds, and this book highlighted that in such a touching way.
Thank you to NetGalley, Putnam, and the author for the ARC in exchange of my honest review.
・。・。・。・。・。・。・。・。・。・。・。・。・
pre-read:
my first ever falon ballard book, and it’s an arc! i requested this book because of it’s blurb and cover and i actually think that i’ll enjoy it a lot for some reason! 👀🩰
Read
January 12, 2026DNF @ 54%
It took me 21 DAYS to get to 54% and I tried SO hard with this book. This book literally made folding my laundry feel interesting. That’s how bored I was 😭
I kept falling asleep while reading it I had to get on the treadmill just to make it that far 😔
It’s just not for me.
I also hate his name with a passion 😭 it genuinely irritates me. Cord??? What kind of name is that??
And the FMC is insufferable. Together they’re just a complete mess and not in a fun
Oh and I almost forgot he calls her slippers 😑
Anyway, thank you to NetGalley and Putnam for the ARC.
It took me 21 DAYS to get to 54% and I tried SO hard with this book. This book literally made folding my laundry feel interesting. That’s how bored I was 😭
I kept falling asleep while reading it I had to get on the treadmill just to make it that far 😔
It’s just not for me.
I also hate his name with a passion 😭 it genuinely irritates me. Cord??? What kind of name is that??
And the FMC is insufferable. Together they’re just a complete mess and not in a fun
Oh and I almost forgot he calls her slippers 😑
Anyway, thank you to NetGalley and Putnam for the ARC.
September 12, 2025
⚡
The worst book of my 2025
I have serious fundamental issues with this book that touch on intrinsic values.
This book just snagged the title of “the book I hate with a passion” because this runs so deep and with so many vital and underlying problems.
When I think about my 16-year-old niece reading this? I get so angry. I don’t want this kind of toxicity and skewed thinking around her.
Buckle up, this will be long.
🚩 A Book that Supports Abuse
I saw the waving red flag at 7% when she says: “And I'm not going to let a little thing like sexual harassment derail me.”
Throughout the book this girl validates and enables abuse and harassment. And when, at the end, that abuse is finally reported (in the epilogue, mind you) it’s not even by her, nor does she care.
👉 When you don’t report abuse and don’t stand up against it, you enable the abuser.
👉 When you brush off harassment, you tell the abuser they can escalate.
Meanwhile, the MMC shares again and again that he walked away from ballet and its institution because of the abuse he and his loved ones suffered. What does the FMC do? She chooses the same institution and her abuser’s request over him. She continues being part of the problem instead of taking a stand.
🎭 An Insult to Art and Performers
The FMC spends the entire book referring to him as “a stripper” even though he explains his art in depth and what he does as a profession (director, entrepreneur, choreographer, performer). BUT she still gets offended when others use the word. Hypocrisy much?
And then this line:
“Noah and Ivy are good, better than good, but something about their performance is still off […] That’s what’s missing. The want, the need. They don’t want each other. Not the way Alegra and I wanted each other. There’s no way to fake that.”
Excuse me? Do you even realize what you’re saying about thousands of performers, actors, dancers who move us with raw talent and chemistry every single day? Moulin Rouge, Swan Lake, Dirty Dancing, all of those stories and performances that moved you to write a story inspired by them - all dismissed in one ignorant line.
💔 Horrible FMC + Perfect MMC = The Worst Trope
It saddens me that I am seeing this trend more and more often: pairing horrible FMCs with perfect MMCs they don’t deserve.
What kind of fucked up world are we in?
Why should men accept selfish, manipulative women who give nothing back?
Why should they sacrifice everything while being blamed for not sacrificing enough?
Why don’t MMCs deserve to protect their own mental health like Cord was doing?
Cord does all the labour in this relationship: emotional, financial, physical. He apologises even when he’s not at fault. He chips away at himself while she initiates once (ONE call in 336 pages).
And when he breaks up with her because they’re at an impasse of a firm boundary tied to his trauma? He’s still forced to apologise.
Appalling.
⚖️ The Line Between Self-Care and Selfishness
I can’t even with the woke oh-look-I-am-inclusive approach.
• Alegra is claimed to be bisexual… yet nothing supports it besides two defensive mentions. Labels without substance ≠ inclusivity.
• The endless “Can I touch you?” moments. Why are all these characters walking on eggshells around each other? They are literally dancing. Do you really need to ask every time? At 80% in, after everything, Cord asks if he can touch her dress? When she was literally sitting on his lap and grinding? Come on. Consent king is great, but this was overkill.
• Cord laid his deepest trauma. SHE asks for SPACE. Not to support him, but to see how it reflects on HER. And then gets mad when he doesn’t text!
👎 Dishonourable Mentions (aka Things That Made Me Hate It More)
• His nickname for her? Slippers. (Yes, the shoes.)
• She “hates pink” but her life is a pink bomb explosion.
• She never does the lifting, he does everything.
• Alegra is shown to be an insecure and self-doubting girl, yet Cord goes to therapy to save the relationship while she does nothing.
• She sends boudoir photos AND nudes (face included!) to him before they’re even dating. Without even considering repercussions of anything.
• She goes on stage and dances with him and strips in front of people. YET, he is the one who needs to fix it, and he has to hide and apologise even though SHE made that choice.
• Emotional manipulation by Alegra? Everywhere. But of course, no one calls her out.
• Alegra is clueless to everything, she could've known a bit about Cord had she done a simple search about him, but it's clear she was only interested in what he can do for her and not in him as a person.
• Everyone blames Cord -even his sister and his best friend- telling him to “take accountability” and fix himself for her.
📉 Sigh
Thank you NetGalley and G.P. Putnam's Sons for the ARC.
There’s time before March 2026 publication to make intrinsic, vital changes, but right now, this book is a red flag I wouldn’t want near any reader.
--
Pre-read:
It's giving Swan Lake x Magic Mike.
I’m ready to pirouette between their shouldn'ts and f*ck-its🩰🕺🏻
I have serious fundamental issues with this book that touch on intrinsic values.
This book just snagged the title of “the book I hate with a passion” because this runs so deep and with so many vital and underlying problems.
When I think about my 16-year-old niece reading this? I get so angry. I don’t want this kind of toxicity and skewed thinking around her.
Buckle up, this will be long.
🚩 A Book that Supports Abuse
I saw the waving red flag at 7% when she says: “And I'm not going to let a little thing like sexual harassment derail me.”
Throughout the book this girl validates and enables abuse and harassment. And when, at the end, that abuse is finally reported (in the epilogue, mind you) it’s not even by her, nor does she care.
👉 When you don’t report abuse and don’t stand up against it, you enable the abuser.
👉 When you brush off harassment, you tell the abuser they can escalate.
Meanwhile, the MMC shares again and again that he walked away from ballet and its institution because of the abuse he and his loved ones suffered. What does the FMC do? She chooses the same institution and her abuser’s request over him. She continues being part of the problem instead of taking a stand.
🎭 An Insult to Art and Performers
The FMC spends the entire book referring to him as “a stripper” even though he explains his art in depth and what he does as a profession (director, entrepreneur, choreographer, performer). BUT she still gets offended when others use the word. Hypocrisy much?
And then this line:
“Noah and Ivy are good, better than good, but something about their performance is still off […] That’s what’s missing. The want, the need. They don’t want each other. Not the way Alegra and I wanted each other. There’s no way to fake that.”
Excuse me? Do you even realize what you’re saying about thousands of performers, actors, dancers who move us with raw talent and chemistry every single day? Moulin Rouge, Swan Lake, Dirty Dancing, all of those stories and performances that moved you to write a story inspired by them - all dismissed in one ignorant line.
💔 Horrible FMC + Perfect MMC = The Worst Trope
It saddens me that I am seeing this trend more and more often: pairing horrible FMCs with perfect MMCs they don’t deserve.
What kind of fucked up world are we in?
Why should men accept selfish, manipulative women who give nothing back?
Why should they sacrifice everything while being blamed for not sacrificing enough?
Why don’t MMCs deserve to protect their own mental health like Cord was doing?
Cord does all the labour in this relationship: emotional, financial, physical. He apologises even when he’s not at fault. He chips away at himself while she initiates once (ONE call in 336 pages).
And when he breaks up with her because they’re at an impasse of a firm boundary tied to his trauma? He’s still forced to apologise.
Appalling.
⚖️ The Line Between Self-Care and Selfishness
I can’t even with the woke oh-look-I-am-inclusive approach.
• Alegra is claimed to be bisexual… yet nothing supports it besides two defensive mentions. Labels without substance ≠ inclusivity.
• The endless “Can I touch you?” moments. Why are all these characters walking on eggshells around each other? They are literally dancing. Do you really need to ask every time? At 80% in, after everything, Cord asks if he can touch her dress? When she was literally sitting on his lap and grinding? Come on. Consent king is great, but this was overkill.
• Cord laid his deepest trauma. SHE asks for SPACE. Not to support him, but to see how it reflects on HER. And then gets mad when he doesn’t text!
👎 Dishonourable Mentions (aka Things That Made Me Hate It More)
• His nickname for her? Slippers. (Yes, the shoes.)
• She “hates pink” but her life is a pink bomb explosion.
• She never does the lifting, he does everything.
• Alegra is shown to be an insecure and self-doubting girl, yet Cord goes to therapy to save the relationship while she does nothing.
• She sends boudoir photos AND nudes (face included!) to him before they’re even dating. Without even considering repercussions of anything.
• She goes on stage and dances with him and strips in front of people. YET, he is the one who needs to fix it, and he has to hide and apologise even though SHE made that choice.
• Emotional manipulation by Alegra? Everywhere. But of course, no one calls her out.
• Alegra is clueless to everything, she could've known a bit about Cord had she done a simple search about him, but it's clear she was only interested in what he can do for her and not in him as a person.
• Everyone blames Cord -even his sister and his best friend- telling him to “take accountability” and fix himself for her.
📉 Sigh
Thank you NetGalley and G.P. Putnam's Sons for the ARC.
There’s time before March 2026 publication to make intrinsic, vital changes, but right now, this book is a red flag I wouldn’t want near any reader.
--
Pre-read:
It's giving Swan Lake x Magic Mike.
I’m ready to pirouette between their shouldn'ts and f*ck-its🩰🕺🏻
May 1, 2026
ˏˋ°•*⁀➷ 2/5
didn't love it, but also didn't hate it...idk let me explain in a few quotes and maybe I'll reach a consensus.
ummmm, so like what? that's a little crazy. From this, what I can say is that I didn't love how it was brushed off...maybe it should have been omitted.
Also didn't love this....well seeing as this was still relatively early in the story, it was just giving creepy guy.
🩴 seriously? He called her slippers because you know...why not? I literally thought of some Indian person replicating this name and I was just sitting here trying to imagine some man calling their woman "chappal" and now I'm dying.
Then, to kind of wrap it all up, I didn't love that "break-up" as well as romance that felt slightly forced.
So yeah, maybe I can amend the statement at the top and say that I didn't really like it.
---------
pre-read: the names of the characters are a little crazy, but I'm going in with no judgement and a mild hope for enjoyment. 🫢
didn't love it, but also didn't hate it...idk let me explain in a few quotes and maybe I'll reach a consensus.
"And I’m not going to let a little thing like sexual harassment derail me. If sexual harassment derailed every ballerina it happened to, ballet would cease to exist."
ummmm, so like what? that's a little crazy. From this, what I can say is that I didn't love how it was brushed off...maybe it should have been omitted.
"I fight really hard not to let my eyes linger on the swells of her breasts or the strip of exposed skin between the bottom of her bra and the top of her leggings."
Also didn't love this....well seeing as this was still relatively early in the story, it was just giving creepy guy.
“What’s your word, Slippers?”
🩴 seriously? He called her slippers because you know...why not? I literally thought of some Indian person replicating this name and I was just sitting here trying to imagine some man calling their woman "chappal" and now I'm dying.
Then, to kind of wrap it all up, I didn't love that "break-up" as well as romance that felt slightly forced.
So yeah, maybe I can amend the statement at the top and say that I didn't really like it.
---------
pre-read: the names of the characters are a little crazy, but I'm going in with no judgement and a mild hope for enjoyment. 🫢
November 24, 2025
Toe to Toe is the kind of romance that makes your pulse quicken and your heart ache in all the best ways. From the first chapter, I was completely pulled into Allegra Hart’s world—an ambitious ballerina who has poured every ounce of herself into the pursuit of becoming a principal dancer. Her talent is undeniable, but her director’s cruel demand—that she embody a sensuality she supposedly lacks—forces her into a crossroads that could define her career. Allegra’s desperation leads her to a partnership with Cord Donovan, a classically trained dancer turned magnetic star of an all-male revue. Their deal—lessons in allure in exchange for her help with his choreography—feels like a deliciously risky gamble, and from the moment they share the stage, the tension between them is undeniable.
What struck me most is how dance becomes its own form of storytelling in this novel. Every rehearsal, every step, every touch is laced with conflict, attraction, and vulnerability. Falon masterfully writes dance not just as performance but as raw expression—where Allegra and Cord reveal truths they can’t quite say out loud. Their chemistry is electric, but what elevates this book beyond a simple dance romance is the emotional complexity: Allegra fighting to define herself outside the pressures of ballet, and Cord grappling with past trauma and his vow to never again partner with a ballerina. Watching them slowly unpeel each other’s defenses was as moving as it was steamy.
The romance builds with a perfect balance of tenderness and heat. Yes, there are sparks that sizzle across the page, but there are also quiet, aching moments where both characters reveal just how much is at stake—not just careers, but identities, dreams, and the possibility of true connection. Allegra is more than the “ice ballerina” her director paints her to be, and Cord is far more than the confident showman he projects on stage. Together, they become something breathtaking, pushing each other to grow, to risk, and to imagine a future where art and love don’t have to cancel each other out.
Toe to Toe is vibrant, sexy, and heartfelt—a love story that pirouettes between ambition and vulnerability with grace. It reminded me that the right partner doesn’t just make you shine on stage; they help you find your true rhythm off it as well. I was captivated from beginning to end, and I can already see myself revisiting these characters when I want a romance that balances high passion with genuine heart.
A very huge thanks to NetGalley and Putnam | G.P. Putnam's Sons for sharing this one of my most anticipated romances' digital reviewer copy with me in exchange for my honest thoughts.
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What struck me most is how dance becomes its own form of storytelling in this novel. Every rehearsal, every step, every touch is laced with conflict, attraction, and vulnerability. Falon masterfully writes dance not just as performance but as raw expression—where Allegra and Cord reveal truths they can’t quite say out loud. Their chemistry is electric, but what elevates this book beyond a simple dance romance is the emotional complexity: Allegra fighting to define herself outside the pressures of ballet, and Cord grappling with past trauma and his vow to never again partner with a ballerina. Watching them slowly unpeel each other’s defenses was as moving as it was steamy.
The romance builds with a perfect balance of tenderness and heat. Yes, there are sparks that sizzle across the page, but there are also quiet, aching moments where both characters reveal just how much is at stake—not just careers, but identities, dreams, and the possibility of true connection. Allegra is more than the “ice ballerina” her director paints her to be, and Cord is far more than the confident showman he projects on stage. Together, they become something breathtaking, pushing each other to grow, to risk, and to imagine a future where art and love don’t have to cancel each other out.
Toe to Toe is vibrant, sexy, and heartfelt—a love story that pirouettes between ambition and vulnerability with grace. It reminded me that the right partner doesn’t just make you shine on stage; they help you find your true rhythm off it as well. I was captivated from beginning to end, and I can already see myself revisiting these characters when I want a romance that balances high passion with genuine heart.
A very huge thanks to NetGalley and Putnam | G.P. Putnam's Sons for sharing this one of my most anticipated romances' digital reviewer copy with me in exchange for my honest thoughts.
Follow me on medium.com to read my articles about books, movies, streaming series, astrology:
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twitter<
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
*Many thanks to NetGalley for providing me an arc in exchange for an honest review!*
Receiving this ARC felt like a dream come true for so many reasons. First, Falon Ballard is one of my absolute favorite contemporary romance authors—her books are always a hit for me. And second, this story revolves around ballet, which I absolutely adore. Ballet romances have a special place in my heart, and this one delivered in every way.
Allegra, the main character, was incredibly relatable to me. It’s been a long time since I genuinely connected with a female lead on this level, so realizing how much I saw myself in her made the reading experience even more special.
Although this ultimately earned a full five stars from me, I did struggle a bit with the third-act breakup. The way the male main character handled the situation felt cold to me, even though his trauma—and the actions shaped by his past—were completely valid and understandable. That said, it didn’t take away from how deeply invested I was in the story as a whole.
Overall, I absolutely adored this book and couldn’t be happier that it became my first five-star read of the year. A beautiful, emotional ballet romance that I’ll be thinking about for a long time.
--------
ALL OF FALON BALLARD’S BOOKS ARE UNDERRATED GEMS!!!
I almost didn’t want to round up this book to 5 stars, but everything turned out justitie way I wanted to. *heart eyes*
I literally dreamt about this moment!!!!!!!!!! 🥹
____________________________
A NEW BOOK ABOUT BALLET DANCERS BY THE FALON BALLARD??!!
Receiving this ARC felt like a dream come true for so many reasons. First, Falon Ballard is one of my absolute favorite contemporary romance authors—her books are always a hit for me. And second, this story revolves around ballet, which I absolutely adore. Ballet romances have a special place in my heart, and this one delivered in every way.
Allegra, the main character, was incredibly relatable to me. It’s been a long time since I genuinely connected with a female lead on this level, so realizing how much I saw myself in her made the reading experience even more special.
Although this ultimately earned a full five stars from me, I did struggle a bit with the third-act breakup. The way the male main character handled the situation felt cold to me, even though his trauma—and the actions shaped by his past—were completely valid and understandable. That said, it didn’t take away from how deeply invested I was in the story as a whole.
Overall, I absolutely adored this book and couldn’t be happier that it became my first five-star read of the year. A beautiful, emotional ballet romance that I’ll be thinking about for a long time.
--------
ALL OF FALON BALLARD’S BOOKS ARE UNDERRATED GEMS!!!
I almost didn’t want to round up this book to 5 stars, but everything turned out justitie way I wanted to. *heart eyes*
I literally dreamt about this moment!!!!!!!!!! 🥹
____________________________
A NEW BOOK ABOUT BALLET DANCERS BY THE FALON BALLARD??!!
February 6, 2026
“i wait until she’s disappeared down the stairs of the subway before i force my suddenly leaden feet to move, my body just as mesmerized by her as my heart is.”
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚༉‧₊˚✧˚₊⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧
ੈ♡˳ rating: 2.5 out of 5 stars rounded up to 3 for goodreads
ੈ♡˳ spice rating: 🌶️🌶️ to 🌶️🌶️🌶️
ੈ♡˳ summary:
allegra is a fiercely career focused woman who lives and breathes her job in the dance world, determined to prove herself in an industry that constantly underestimates her. cord is a professional dancer whose career is built on performance, chemistry, and vulnerability. when their paths collide, they are forced into close proximity that blurs the line between professional ambition and personal desire. as they navigate demanding schedules, power dynamics, and their own emotional walls, the two must decide whether there is room for love in lives built entirely around work and survival in competitive spaces.
ੈ♡˳ thoughts:
this book is absolutely for the step up and magic mike crowd. if channing tatum has ever been your celebrity crush, you are probably going to enjoy the vibe of this book a lot more than i did. the premise itself is genuinely fun and had so much potential. dancers, chemistry, physicality, passion, yes please. unfortunately the execution just did not fully land for me.
the pacing was strange in a way that is hard to explain. everything felt like it was happening too fast but also somehow nothing was happening at all. i was over forty percent into the book when i realized that emotionally, we had gone nowhere. allegra and cord had technically known each other for weeks, but it felt like they barely spoke about anything meaningful. there was very little emotional intimacy, which made it hard for me to believe in their connection.
allegra as a character really did not work for me. she had almost no emotional range, which felt frustrating and honestly embarrassing for a grown woman. i love a career driven female main character, but authors sometimes forget that being strong and ambitious does not mean being emotionally hollow. this book definitely fell into that trap. it also really bothered me how allegra handled workplace harassment. her boss was a walking lawsuit, and the narrative around her just needing to power through it rubbed me the wrong way. women should not have to endure harassment just to keep their careers intact.
cord carried this entire book emotionally. he did the work. he compromised. he pushed his boundaries. allegra expected him to put her first without ever being willing to do the same. by the end, i genuinely did not believe this relationship would survive beyond the final page. the third act breakup did not help either and the timeline surrounding it felt rushed and unrealistic.
all that said, the book was still cute and fun in moments. the concept was a solid ten out of ten. the execution just did not match it for me.
thank you to falon ballard, berkley, and netgalley for providing me with an advanced reader copy.
ੈ♡˳ tropes:
ꕥ workplace romance
ꕥ forced proximity
ꕥ dancer romance
ꕥ opposites in ambition
ꕥ third act breakup
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚༉‧₊˚✧˚₊⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧
ੈ♡˳ rating: 2.5 out of 5 stars rounded up to 3 for goodreads
ੈ♡˳ spice rating: 🌶️🌶️ to 🌶️🌶️🌶️
ੈ♡˳ summary:
allegra is a fiercely career focused woman who lives and breathes her job in the dance world, determined to prove herself in an industry that constantly underestimates her. cord is a professional dancer whose career is built on performance, chemistry, and vulnerability. when their paths collide, they are forced into close proximity that blurs the line between professional ambition and personal desire. as they navigate demanding schedules, power dynamics, and their own emotional walls, the two must decide whether there is room for love in lives built entirely around work and survival in competitive spaces.
ੈ♡˳ thoughts:
this book is absolutely for the step up and magic mike crowd. if channing tatum has ever been your celebrity crush, you are probably going to enjoy the vibe of this book a lot more than i did. the premise itself is genuinely fun and had so much potential. dancers, chemistry, physicality, passion, yes please. unfortunately the execution just did not fully land for me.
the pacing was strange in a way that is hard to explain. everything felt like it was happening too fast but also somehow nothing was happening at all. i was over forty percent into the book when i realized that emotionally, we had gone nowhere. allegra and cord had technically known each other for weeks, but it felt like they barely spoke about anything meaningful. there was very little emotional intimacy, which made it hard for me to believe in their connection.
allegra as a character really did not work for me. she had almost no emotional range, which felt frustrating and honestly embarrassing for a grown woman. i love a career driven female main character, but authors sometimes forget that being strong and ambitious does not mean being emotionally hollow. this book definitely fell into that trap. it also really bothered me how allegra handled workplace harassment. her boss was a walking lawsuit, and the narrative around her just needing to power through it rubbed me the wrong way. women should not have to endure harassment just to keep their careers intact.
cord carried this entire book emotionally. he did the work. he compromised. he pushed his boundaries. allegra expected him to put her first without ever being willing to do the same. by the end, i genuinely did not believe this relationship would survive beyond the final page. the third act breakup did not help either and the timeline surrounding it felt rushed and unrealistic.
all that said, the book was still cute and fun in moments. the concept was a solid ten out of ten. the execution just did not match it for me.
thank you to falon ballard, berkley, and netgalley for providing me with an advanced reader copy.
ੈ♡˳ tropes:
ꕥ workplace romance
ꕥ forced proximity
ꕥ dancer romance
ꕥ opposites in ambition
ꕥ third act breakup
February 22, 2026
This book was not at all what I expected it to be. It was not a bad book, however it wasn’t a great one either. There were definitely pros and cons, when it came to this one. I was not a fan of the main characters in this book, I could not relate to either of them. There seems to be a lack of the ballet aspect in the book as well. This is a workplace, opposites attract romance.
My two main moods while reading this were emotional and hopeful. This felt more like an insta love story, especially after the third act break up. This book does come with some content warnings, that you may want to look into before picking up this book. Overall, I give this book a 2.5 (bumping it to a 3) out of 5 stars!
Thank you to NetGalley, author Falon Ballard and Putnam | G.P. Putnam's Sons for this eARC in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
This novel is expected to be published on March 10, 2026.
My two main moods while reading this were emotional and hopeful. This felt more like an insta love story, especially after the third act break up. This book does come with some content warnings, that you may want to look into before picking up this book. Overall, I give this book a 2.5 (bumping it to a 3) out of 5 stars!
Thank you to NetGalley, author Falon Ballard and Putnam | G.P. Putnam's Sons for this eARC in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
This novel is expected to be published on March 10, 2026.
March 12, 2026
A really good palate cleanser.
The pacing was kinda slow but other than that the storyline and the characters were really well thought out!
The chemistry was there. The romance was soooo cute like wdym he takes a redeye just so he doesn’t miss going to the food festival with her 😭😭☹️🤚💗💕💘💖
I adore the mmc and his sister. Someone pls tell me Chloe is getting a book of her own 🤞
ೃ⁀➷ Thank you NetGalley and Putnam for the ARC! ♥︎
The pacing was kinda slow but other than that the storyline and the characters were really well thought out!
The chemistry was there. The romance was soooo cute like wdym he takes a redeye just so he doesn’t miss going to the food festival with her 😭😭☹️🤚💗💕💘💖
I adore the mmc and his sister. Someone pls tell me Chloe is getting a book of her own 🤞
ೃ⁀➷ Thank you NetGalley and Putnam for the ARC! ♥︎
December 11, 2025
6 ⭐️
this book was INTOXICATING, i absolutely devoured it and im so distraught that i finished it in a little over a day because i NEED more of them. i am a firm believer of no romance book really needs to be over 500 pages long, 450 is pushing it sometimes but i DESPERATELY NEED AT LEAST 500 MORE PAGES OF ALLEGRA AND CORD. 336 WAS NOT ENOUGH 😂😭
i decided to go into this one completely blind and only based off the cover, i originally got it in my head for whatever reason that it was going to be a bit of an enemies to lovers vibe and i have never been happier to find out that he’s actually down bad from the moment he sees her. i am simply obsessed with the way they meet, his profession and how he comes to helping her out 🤭.
like most people i am completely obsessed with heated rivalry and its actors right now and immediately upon starting this all i could picture for cord is connor storrie (happy to report this was falon approved on my instagram post yesterday). his passion, dedication and his kindness all just screamed cord for me right from the get go and just elevated the fun i had with reading this tenfold 🫠.
even though these two are attracted to and enamored by one another from the jump this book had such a beautiful and intense slow burn/build up. i think that is exactly why i was so captivated by allegra and cord the entire book because they built a really good friendship/partnership all through out the story, while they had always had the chemistry, they waited until this was a solid foundation of trust in each other and i thought it was stunning. and though im a certified 3rd act break up hater sometimes i have to say this was definitely one of my favorites. even when they were going through it towards the end it was still perfection for me and it made the ending that much sweeter.
i think this was truly my easiest 6 star read this year. i feel like ive read so many phenomenal books but none enraptured me from start to finish quite like this one did and i cannot waiitttt to get my hands on the audiobook come pub day because i WILL be rereading this book constantly!!
this book was INTOXICATING, i absolutely devoured it and im so distraught that i finished it in a little over a day because i NEED more of them. i am a firm believer of no romance book really needs to be over 500 pages long, 450 is pushing it sometimes but i DESPERATELY NEED AT LEAST 500 MORE PAGES OF ALLEGRA AND CORD. 336 WAS NOT ENOUGH 😂😭
i decided to go into this one completely blind and only based off the cover, i originally got it in my head for whatever reason that it was going to be a bit of an enemies to lovers vibe and i have never been happier to find out that he’s actually down bad from the moment he sees her. i am simply obsessed with the way they meet, his profession and how he comes to helping her out 🤭.
like most people i am completely obsessed with heated rivalry and its actors right now and immediately upon starting this all i could picture for cord is connor storrie (happy to report this was falon approved on my instagram post yesterday). his passion, dedication and his kindness all just screamed cord for me right from the get go and just elevated the fun i had with reading this tenfold 🫠.
even though these two are attracted to and enamored by one another from the jump this book had such a beautiful and intense slow burn/build up. i think that is exactly why i was so captivated by allegra and cord the entire book because they built a really good friendship/partnership all through out the story, while they had always had the chemistry, they waited until this was a solid foundation of trust in each other and i thought it was stunning. and though im a certified 3rd act break up hater sometimes i have to say this was definitely one of my favorites. even when they were going through it towards the end it was still perfection for me and it made the ending that much sweeter.
i think this was truly my easiest 6 star read this year. i feel like ive read so many phenomenal books but none enraptured me from start to finish quite like this one did and i cannot waiitttt to get my hands on the audiobook come pub day because i WILL be rereading this book constantly!!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
➳ 2.5 ☆! 🩰 spoiler free + mini review
⤷ cute! it was just an ok read
arc! @ netgalley
⋆˚࿔ 10th review of the year
₊‧꒰my thoughts꒱ ‧₊ 🌃
⤷ i wish i read the description more before i requested this LOL. the premise was interesting tho, but i believe it could've been executed better! this book also felt very insta-lust to me and i didn't feel a deep connection to the characters. of course, they had chemistry for sure but maybe not emotionally at times. what i can appreciate is that it was a fast paced read and i was able to read it within a day! i probably won't be thinking back on this book but it was fun while it lasted haha 💗 there were some things i found cringe tho... like really 😭 i also wish our fmc went to therapy throughout the book 😔🫂 PROPS TO THE CUTE COVER
tropes!
⋆ ballerina
⋆ sports romance
⋆ set in the city
₊‧꒰info!꒱ ‧₊
⤷ find my book review on goodreads @elliexreads
⤷ recommend for adult 18+
⤷ contemporary romance set in nyc, fmc needs to prepare for a lead role
publish date: mar 10, 2026
₊‧ all ratings and opinions are my own ₊‧
⤷ thank you @netgalley and putnam for the arc in exchange for an honest review !🫂
-------------
₊‧꒰1.22.26꒱ ‧₊
⤷ YAY!! tysm netgalley for the arc, i cant wait to dive into this! first falon ballard book 💗
⤷ cute! it was just an ok read
arc! @ netgalley
⋆˚࿔ 10th review of the year
love doesnt always conquer all. ive always know that, now it's time to accept it.
₊‧꒰my thoughts꒱ ‧₊ 🌃
⤷ i wish i read the description more before i requested this LOL. the premise was interesting tho, but i believe it could've been executed better! this book also felt very insta-lust to me and i didn't feel a deep connection to the characters. of course, they had chemistry for sure but maybe not emotionally at times. what i can appreciate is that it was a fast paced read and i was able to read it within a day! i probably won't be thinking back on this book but it was fun while it lasted haha 💗 there were some things i found cringe tho... like really 😭 i also wish our fmc went to therapy throughout the book 😔🫂 PROPS TO THE CUTE COVER
tropes!
⋆ ballerina
⋆ sports romance
⋆ set in the city
₊‧꒰info!꒱ ‧₊
⤷ find my book review on goodreads @elliexreads
⤷ recommend for adult 18+
⤷ contemporary romance set in nyc, fmc needs to prepare for a lead role
publish date: mar 10, 2026
₊‧ all ratings and opinions are my own ₊‧
⤷ thank you @netgalley and putnam for the arc in exchange for an honest review !🫂
-------------
₊‧꒰preview ᝰ.ᐟ꒱ ‧₊ 🩰
₊‧꒰1.22.26꒱ ‧₊
⤷ YAY!! tysm netgalley for the arc, i cant wait to dive into this! first falon ballard book 💗
March 6, 2026
I knew within the first few pages that I was in trouble… the good kind. 🫶🏼🫶🏼🫶🏼 I picked up Toe to Toe thinking I’d read a chapter or two… and suddenly it was three hours later and I was fully obsessed. It has that effortless pull where suddenly you’re fully invested without realizing when it happened. It’s one of those books that grips you without warning, and suddenly you’re all in. 🩷🩷
Allegra grabbed my attention instantly. She’s so dedicated and passionate about her dream that you can’t help but root for her. And then Cord walks in, calm and confident and quietly magnetic, and suddenly every scene with the two of them feels charged in the best way.
The way these two connect is what makes the book so addictive. Their chemistry builds slowly and naturally, never forced or rushed. Every rehearsal and shared moment has this spark that keeps you turning pages without even noticing. And there’s this sensual undercurrent running through the whole story that makes every moment between them feel charged.
What I loved most is how Cord treats Allegra. He listens. He pays attention. He respects her boundaries, even when he encourages her to see herself the way he does. Watching him help her find confidence in her dancing and in her own body was such a beautiful thread through the story.
And Allegra’s determination never fades. Even when things get tough, she stays true to herself. Their communication is actually healthy with no pointless drama and no childish arguments, which makes their whole relationship feel grounded and refreshing. The emotions build, the connection deepens, and yes, there’s a third-act bump, but it feels necessary and actually produces growth instead of dragging anything down.
By the end, I wasn’t ready to leave these characters behind. I’m hoping Noah and Ivy get a story next because I’m not done living in this world.
Five stars. Easy. Absolutely worth reading.
also just something a little extra that i think is important ↴ ↴
just to throw my thoughts out on this topic since I’ve seen some reviews saying this story “supports abuse” because Allegra experiences sexual harassment and doesn’t report it. Personally, I don’t think that’s a fair takeaway. To me, it felt like a very real depiction of what happens when someone has spent their whole life working toward one dream and is terrified of losing everything they’ve built. Fear can make you freeze. It can make you second-guess yourself. And sometimes people keep going, hoping things will get better, because the alternative feels too big and too risky.
I’ll be honest, I was a little disappointed that Allegra isn’t the one who reports it in the end—someone else comes forward instead—but she does get the courage to tell her experiences after that first step. (and that is a VERY real thing irl. So many woman don’t speak up because of fear and just because someone doesn’t speak up first doesn’t mean they’re okay with sexual harassment.) To me, it didn’t feel like the author was excusing the harassment at all 🤷🏼♀️ it felt like an honest look at how complicated these situations can be in real life.
-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-favorite quotes-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-
”She laughs and I wonder if it's the first time I've heard the sound or if it just sounds special because it comes from her.”
"Be honest with me. And be honest with yourself, Slippers.
How can you expect others to find you attractive if you don't feel that way yourself?"
"We don't need a spotter, I know how to fall."
I raise both eyebrows. "You think I'm going to chance you getting injured right before you open a show?"
"I thought you hated Swan Lake."
"Just because I think classical ballet is boring doesn't mean I don't understand what it means to you."
She opens her mouth and I expect one of her fiery comebacks, but instead all she says is, "Thank you."
I mask my surprise at her genuine thanks. "For what?"
"For respecting me and my career.”
(had to add that last one because he was just so considerate toward her 💗💗)
-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-
things to know about the book ↓
🩰 dance partners
🩰 slowburn
🩰 third act breakup
🩰 learning self-love
🩰 dual POV
A huge thank you to Netgalley, Putnam, and Falon Ballard for allowing me to read this arc. These are all my honest opinions in this review.
spice rating:【 🌶️🌶️🌶️ 】
swearing: yes
Allegra grabbed my attention instantly. She’s so dedicated and passionate about her dream that you can’t help but root for her. And then Cord walks in, calm and confident and quietly magnetic, and suddenly every scene with the two of them feels charged in the best way.
The way these two connect is what makes the book so addictive. Their chemistry builds slowly and naturally, never forced or rushed. Every rehearsal and shared moment has this spark that keeps you turning pages without even noticing. And there’s this sensual undercurrent running through the whole story that makes every moment between them feel charged.
What I loved most is how Cord treats Allegra. He listens. He pays attention. He respects her boundaries, even when he encourages her to see herself the way he does. Watching him help her find confidence in her dancing and in her own body was such a beautiful thread through the story.
And Allegra’s determination never fades. Even when things get tough, she stays true to herself. Their communication is actually healthy with no pointless drama and no childish arguments, which makes their whole relationship feel grounded and refreshing. The emotions build, the connection deepens, and yes, there’s a third-act bump, but it feels necessary and actually produces growth instead of dragging anything down.
By the end, I wasn’t ready to leave these characters behind. I’m hoping Noah and Ivy get a story next because I’m not done living in this world.
Five stars. Easy. Absolutely worth reading.
also just something a little extra that i think is important ↴ ↴
just to throw my thoughts out on this topic since I’ve seen some reviews saying this story “supports abuse” because Allegra experiences sexual harassment and doesn’t report it. Personally, I don’t think that’s a fair takeaway. To me, it felt like a very real depiction of what happens when someone has spent their whole life working toward one dream and is terrified of losing everything they’ve built. Fear can make you freeze. It can make you second-guess yourself. And sometimes people keep going, hoping things will get better, because the alternative feels too big and too risky.
I’ll be honest, I was a little disappointed that Allegra isn’t the one who reports it in the end—someone else comes forward instead—but she does get the courage to tell her experiences after that first step. (and that is a VERY real thing irl. So many woman don’t speak up because of fear and just because someone doesn’t speak up first doesn’t mean they’re okay with sexual harassment.) To me, it didn’t feel like the author was excusing the harassment at all 🤷🏼♀️ it felt like an honest look at how complicated these situations can be in real life.
-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-favorite quotes-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-
”She laughs and I wonder if it's the first time I've heard the sound or if it just sounds special because it comes from her.”
"Be honest with me. And be honest with yourself, Slippers.
How can you expect others to find you attractive if you don't feel that way yourself?"
"We don't need a spotter, I know how to fall."
I raise both eyebrows. "You think I'm going to chance you getting injured right before you open a show?"
"I thought you hated Swan Lake."
"Just because I think classical ballet is boring doesn't mean I don't understand what it means to you."
She opens her mouth and I expect one of her fiery comebacks, but instead all she says is, "Thank you."
I mask my surprise at her genuine thanks. "For what?"
"For respecting me and my career.”
(had to add that last one because he was just so considerate toward her 💗💗)
-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-
things to know about the book ↓
🩰 dance partners
🩰 slowburn
🩰 third act breakup
🩰 learning self-love
🩰 dual POV
A huge thank you to Netgalley, Putnam, and Falon Ballard for allowing me to read this arc. These are all my honest opinions in this review.
spice rating:【 🌶️🌶️🌶️ 】
swearing: yes
August 31, 2025
the former dancer in me LOVED this book. this was such a fun and sweet book and Falon absolutely knocked it out of the park with this one! thank you so much to NetGalley and Putnam publishing for the arc!!
![Profile Image for ri ⊹.˚ [ semi-ia - finals ].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1775692063i%2F160676009._UX200_CR0%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
September 14, 2025
toe to toe
⌗ aug. 22 - aug. 24
⤿ 4 stars
༉ initial thoughts- no spoilers
this is a story about a ballet dancer and a former ballet dancer turned male stripper. allegra sees cord performing at her sister’s bachelorette and decides he’s her best chance at getting the principal role in her companies newest ballet.
the plot of this book was something that i really loved and was excited to read. i loved seeing the dynamics between the characters as they both loved dancing and it played a huge role in their romance.
the progression of the story was well paced though the beginning was a bit insta-lovey however the pacing really saved it.
i also really enjoyed the fact the romance started out as friendship. while cord took a role of teacher and “mentor”, he always insured that allegra feels comfortable and that is something i very much appreciated.
༉ characters - light spoilers
🩰 allegra - i really liked her character, she was determined and hard working. she didn’t really lose herself with cord, it was more her growing into who she was. i did not at my point like david and i’m glad he got the ending he deserved. allegra strived for something she knew she could earned and worked till she did and i really appreciated that part of her character. she was really likable and i enjoyed reading her perspective.
🪩 cord - he was a really fun character and a great contrast to allegra. it was interesting to see how different both of the mcs views were about ballet considering the differences in their experiences. cord is not only a dancer but he is also the owner of the club. he deeply cared about his sister and grew to care about allegra and i loved that. he was respectful and laidback, it made him a really enjoyable character.
༉ final thoughts- no spoilers
this was a great book, it was not only enjoyable but also met my expectations from when i first requested this book. the characters and plot were amazing. the dancing aspect was such and important part of the story and was integrated in an amazing way. this was overall an amazing read.
༉‧₊˚. pre - read
a book about two ballet dancers? sign me up. i loved étoile and was so pissed off when they cancelled it 🥲 (will never get over it). anyway i am so excited to be reading about ballet. first by this author and im looking forward to it!!
ⓘ thank you netgalley & putnam for this arc in exchange for an honest review
⌗ aug. 22 - aug. 24
⤿ 4 stars
༉ initial thoughts- no spoilers
this is a story about a ballet dancer and a former ballet dancer turned male stripper. allegra sees cord performing at her sister’s bachelorette and decides he’s her best chance at getting the principal role in her companies newest ballet.
the plot of this book was something that i really loved and was excited to read. i loved seeing the dynamics between the characters as they both loved dancing and it played a huge role in their romance.
the progression of the story was well paced though the beginning was a bit insta-lovey however the pacing really saved it.
i also really enjoyed the fact the romance started out as friendship. while cord took a role of teacher and “mentor”, he always insured that allegra feels comfortable and that is something i very much appreciated.
༉ characters - light spoilers
🩰 allegra - i really liked her character, she was determined and hard working. she didn’t really lose herself with cord, it was more her growing into who she was. i did not at my point like david and i’m glad he got the ending he deserved. allegra strived for something she knew she could earned and worked till she did and i really appreciated that part of her character. she was really likable and i enjoyed reading her perspective.
🪩 cord - he was a really fun character and a great contrast to allegra. it was interesting to see how different both of the mcs views were about ballet considering the differences in their experiences. cord is not only a dancer but he is also the owner of the club. he deeply cared about his sister and grew to care about allegra and i loved that. he was respectful and laidback, it made him a really enjoyable character.
༉ final thoughts- no spoilers
this was a great book, it was not only enjoyable but also met my expectations from when i first requested this book. the characters and plot were amazing. the dancing aspect was such and important part of the story and was integrated in an amazing way. this was overall an amazing read.
༉‧₊˚. pre - read
a book about two ballet dancers? sign me up. i loved étoile and was so pissed off when they cancelled it 🥲 (will never get over it). anyway i am so excited to be reading about ballet. first by this author and im looking forward to it!!
ⓘ thank you netgalley & putnam for this arc in exchange for an honest review
February 25, 2026
Save the Last Dance meets Magic Mike.
I’m down to consume any ballet related movie or book, it feeds the little girl that wanted to be a ballerina/Tupperware lady/doctor (not or, I wanted to be al three at the same time).
This was a fun time! Quick, bingeable, & spicy.
I liked that the FMC went on these little confidence building adventures and that the MMC was very down bad.
Whats to love…
- pro therapy
- down bad MMC that “doesn’t date”
- instant attraction and a little friends-to-lovers vibe for the relationship development
- he 💦 in his pants
- supportive cast of friends
- mommy trauma (complicated family dynamics)
Overall this was a really cute read, but it’s probably not something that will stick with me long term.
3.75⭐️| IG | TikTok |
Thank you to the publisher for the gifted book. All opinions are my own.
I’m down to consume any ballet related movie or book, it feeds the little girl that wanted to be a ballerina/Tupperware lady/doctor (not or, I wanted to be al three at the same time).
This was a fun time! Quick, bingeable, & spicy.
I liked that the FMC went on these little confidence building adventures and that the MMC was very down bad.
Whats to love…
- pro therapy
- down bad MMC that “doesn’t date”
- instant attraction and a little friends-to-lovers vibe for the relationship development
- he 💦 in his pants
- supportive cast of friends
- mommy trauma (complicated family dynamics)
Overall this was a really cute read, but it’s probably not something that will stick with me long term.
3.75⭐️| IG | TikTok |
Thank you to the publisher for the gifted book. All opinions are my own.
March 13, 2026
3.75/5
WHY WOULD A MAN BE THERE???
ballet is something that is so impressive to me, like the grace these people have and the ankle strength, i am eternally jealous. this premise just sounded so fun to me so i knew i needed to download it and see if the magic of magic mike could be replicated in book form, spoiler, it can... kinda! following allegra as she embarks on a journey to find her sexuality/confidence was amazing, i know it started as a creepy comment from an even creepier man, but once she started doing things for herself you could see the growth clear as day. the pacing of this book was phenomenal, i basically read it all in one sitting and i had a blast!!
my unfortunate issues with this book lie with mr. cord. LET ME TELL YOU, i wanted to slap him. honestly i really appreciated how everyone in his life was equally upset with the decisions he made and the words he used because if they were being chill with him i would've been so pissed off. the third act breakup was so dumb, not plot wise but reaction wise. i actually thought that the issue we brought up in the end could be interesting to deal with but cord was just so fucking stupid. i'm so pissed that he ruined the end of this book because when i tell you i adore allegra, i mean that wholeheartedly.
so yeah, those are my thoughts. allegra is the best part of this book. her scenes with chloe and ava were so well written and my only issues with her came in the form of her mother. i think that relationship was resolved a bit too quickly but cord was so annoying that i forgot about it. its so upsetting because before that debacle i was so into the book. the chemistry of them dancing together, the LAP DANCE, just all of their cute little dates in the beginning, it was all so good! i highly recommend the first half, maybe i am just dramatic and you'll love the end but the book is good, i just can't be handing out fours to men who aren't noah... (he was my fav)
*thank you to netglley and putnam for the copy!*
WHY WOULD A MAN BE THERE???
ballet is something that is so impressive to me, like the grace these people have and the ankle strength, i am eternally jealous. this premise just sounded so fun to me so i knew i needed to download it and see if the magic of magic mike could be replicated in book form, spoiler, it can... kinda! following allegra as she embarks on a journey to find her sexuality/confidence was amazing, i know it started as a creepy comment from an even creepier man, but once she started doing things for herself you could see the growth clear as day. the pacing of this book was phenomenal, i basically read it all in one sitting and i had a blast!!
my unfortunate issues with this book lie with mr. cord. LET ME TELL YOU, i wanted to slap him. honestly i really appreciated how everyone in his life was equally upset with the decisions he made and the words he used because if they were being chill with him i would've been so pissed off. the third act breakup was so dumb, not plot wise but reaction wise. i actually thought that the issue we brought up in the end could be interesting to deal with but cord was just so fucking stupid. i'm so pissed that he ruined the end of this book because when i tell you i adore allegra, i mean that wholeheartedly.
so yeah, those are my thoughts. allegra is the best part of this book. her scenes with chloe and ava were so well written and my only issues with her came in the form of her mother. i think that relationship was resolved a bit too quickly but cord was so annoying that i forgot about it. its so upsetting because before that debacle i was so into the book. the chemistry of them dancing together, the LAP DANCE, just all of their cute little dates in the beginning, it was all so good! i highly recommend the first half, maybe i am just dramatic and you'll love the end but the book is good, i just can't be handing out fours to men who aren't noah... (he was my fav)
*thank you to netglley and putnam for the copy!*
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4⭐️
I have loved all of the Falon Ballard books I have read to-date, so I was SO excited to get my hands on this one! Allegra is a dancer with Ballet New York and has been working her ass off to prove that she's principle-dancer material. When her slimy director announces a new upcoming show but tells Allegra she's not sexy enough for it, Allegra marches out with a plan to prove him wrong.
She happens to see Cord at Six Pact, his male entertainment show, and comes up with an idea- Cord can teach Allegra to dance with the sensuality that he did on stage, and she'll help him choreograph a new set. These two had some really great chemistry, and I loved getting to see them slowly get to know each other and become more comfortable with each other. This features a lot of dance (obviously) which I found a bit slower, like going through the choreo and going through the steps, but also seemed necessary to the story. This isn't a book where our characters are dancers and we're only ever told about it- we go along with Allegra to classes and practice, sit with Cord as he pours over his sets and notes for the shows.
I did have some qualms with the ending but that ultimately didn't take anything from my enjoyment here.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publishing team for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I have loved all of the Falon Ballard books I have read to-date, so I was SO excited to get my hands on this one! Allegra is a dancer with Ballet New York and has been working her ass off to prove that she's principle-dancer material. When her slimy director announces a new upcoming show but tells Allegra she's not sexy enough for it, Allegra marches out with a plan to prove him wrong.
She happens to see Cord at Six Pact, his male entertainment show, and comes up with an idea- Cord can teach Allegra to dance with the sensuality that he did on stage, and she'll help him choreograph a new set. These two had some really great chemistry, and I loved getting to see them slowly get to know each other and become more comfortable with each other. This features a lot of dance (obviously) which I found a bit slower, like going through the choreo and going through the steps, but also seemed necessary to the story. This isn't a book where our characters are dancers and we're only ever told about it- we go along with Allegra to classes and practice, sit with Cord as he pours over his sets and notes for the shows.
I did have some qualms with the ending but that ultimately didn't take anything from my enjoyment here.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publishing team for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚ 4.5 stars ˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"I wait until she's disappeared down the stairs of the subway before I force my suddenly leaden feet to move, my body just as mesmerized by her as my heart is."
the first book i have read by falon ballard, and most certainly won't be my last! i loved this so much! the story got me hooked from the very start and i became fully invested.
the main characters immediately drew me in. starting off with allegra, she is such a passionate and hardworking woman that i admire her. she knew her goals with ballet and what she wanted to achieve, and she was so determined that she reached them in the end. cord was also an enjoyable character to read about. he was a contrast to allegra, so this is lowkey opposites attract! he is confident, fun, and i just love how respectful he is and makes sure that allegra feels comfortable at all times. it was so beautiful to see allegra learn about self-love with cord's help, she learned to be more confident both physically and mentally.
both characters in this book are dancers, and i really enjoyed the fact that dancing played such a large role in their stories. i really hated david and how he was able to "control" allegra but he got what he deserved at the end. it was able to represent though how women deal with harassment, a situation you can find in real life. also, i really liked lucy and noah, hopefully they get their own book someday!
anyway, this book met and even exceeded my expectations than when i requested it. everything about it was enjoyable and i would recommend reading it!
˗ˋˏ ୨୧ thank you to NetGalley, Headline | Headline Eternal, and Falon Ballard for the digital arc in exchange for an honest review! ୨୧ ˎˊ˗
pre-read:
this looks cuteee! 🩷🩰
"I wait until she's disappeared down the stairs of the subway before I force my suddenly leaden feet to move, my body just as mesmerized by her as my heart is."
the first book i have read by falon ballard, and most certainly won't be my last! i loved this so much! the story got me hooked from the very start and i became fully invested.
the main characters immediately drew me in. starting off with allegra, she is such a passionate and hardworking woman that i admire her. she knew her goals with ballet and what she wanted to achieve, and she was so determined that she reached them in the end. cord was also an enjoyable character to read about. he was a contrast to allegra, so this is lowkey opposites attract! he is confident, fun, and i just love how respectful he is and makes sure that allegra feels comfortable at all times. it was so beautiful to see allegra learn about self-love with cord's help, she learned to be more confident both physically and mentally.
both characters in this book are dancers, and i really enjoyed the fact that dancing played such a large role in their stories. i really hated david and how he was able to "control" allegra but he got what he deserved at the end. it was able to represent though how women deal with harassment, a situation you can find in real life. also, i really liked lucy and noah, hopefully they get their own book someday!
anyway, this book met and even exceeded my expectations than when i requested it. everything about it was enjoyable and i would recommend reading it!
˗ˋˏ ୨୧ thank you to NetGalley, Headline | Headline Eternal, and Falon Ballard for the digital arc in exchange for an honest review! ୨୧ ˎˊ˗
pre-read:
this looks cuteee! 🩷🩰
September 8, 2025
a ballerina and a male stripper? say less!
This was my first Falon Ballard book and it will not be my last
This was my first Falon Ballard book and it will not be my last
January 29, 2026
RANT INCOMING! It pains me to write this, because I love ballet. I don’t even generally read romance often but I wanted to read this one because I just love ballet so much. I love everything about it. I love the delicacy and gracefulness of the sport, the balletcore aesthetic, the ballet pink color, all of it. I’ll always have a soft spot for books about ballerinas. Literally just put a ballerina on the cover and I’ll wanna read it. And on top of that, Fallon Ballard is an author that very much is on my radar, despite me not usually really being much of a romance reader, because Change Of Heart is one of my favorite romance novels ever.
So it pains me to say that the romance in this was worst most frustrating romance novels I’ve ever read.
Some background first. I’m sure you’ve read the synopsis and you’re probably wondering why a ballerina needs to have sex appeal, something completely irrelevant to the classical ballet. For pieces like Swan Lake or Nutcracker, grace, poise, and technique are what directors look for, not sex appeal. However, the artistic director of Allegra’s ballet company is pitching a new and original idea about a destitute courtesan who is caught between a penniless writer who loves her and a rich prince who is cruel and heartless. Ballet has always been elegant but never before has it been sexy, and this director wants to change that. Allegra has been dancing for a whopping ten years and is way past due for a principal role in her ballet company. She is determined to do whatever it takes to become a leading lady, including asking for help from a male performer who oozes the sex appeal she needs for this role. In return for his help, she promises to help him choreograph something for his show.
Sounds fun, sounds great, sounds like a cutesy romcom plot. And it more or less was that, until the last 88% where the mmc showed his true colors. I’m not going to reveal any specific details for spoilers but I am going to talk about the ending conflict. Rant incoming. And it’s going to be long.
CORD WAS ONE OF THE WORST IF NOT THE WORST MALE MC’S IVE EVER READ. I understand and respect triggers. I understand and respect trauma. But that doesn’t change the fact that Cord was acting completely unreasonable, putting someone he supposedly loved in an impossible situation. I respect Cord having triggers, but making someone choose between their dreams and a relationship when they WEREN’T ASKING FOR MUCH? And instead gaslit her after giving her an ultimatum when he KNOWS ballet is her life? It’s shitty, manipulative, and selfish. I just couldn’t with the gaslighting. The whole “you care about ballet moooooore than meeeeee because you’re not willing to give up your whole dream that you’ve spent your whole life working towards, to make me feel comfortable!”
This is all because when she makes one request, for the sake of her dreams, requesting for him to just wait a few months of not dating out in public for reasons I won’t spoil, and he immediately jumps to “so you’re breaking up with me? You’re choosing ballet over me?” When she NEVER SAID THAT or even hinted towards it, but is making a request so that she can live her ballerina dreams. But he immediately responds with “you’re breaking up with me! You’re choosing ballet over ME”.
The whole “I knew you would choose ballet over me!” thing is massively dumb because Allegra made it clear to him, verbally, from the beginning ballet that would always be her priority. So you can’t even blame this on a communication issue because SHE DID COMMUNICATE, he KNEW and was ok with it, until he decided he wasn’t when it required sacrifice and discomfort on his end. She calmly explains she was always honest that ballet is her priority and it doesn’t mean she cares about him any less, the fact that she doesn’t want to put her dreams on hold to make Cord’s annoying ass feel more comfortable.
But Cord the manipulator does mental gymnastics and twists “I’ve always been honest that ballet has always been my priority but it doesn’t mean I care about you any less” into “you don’t care about me anymore” somehow lol. Like he literally responds right after with that. She makes a request he doesn’t wanna abide by and it becomes “you’re choosing ballet over me, you don’t care about me anymore!”
And after all that gaslighting, HE THEN GIVES HER AN ULTIMATUM as if that isn’t enough. He tells her it’s either him or ballet, telling her she has to give up her dream, her entire life, something she’s been working towards for a decade? For a guy she barely even knows still? And right after that tells her “this is the choice you’re making” essentially putting all the blame on her and saying all of this is completely her fault? As if the gaslighting and ultimatum weren’t enough? Plz fuck all the way off. And he has the audacity to internally think “she doesn’t know what she’s doing to me, putting me in the same traumatizing situation” me me me it’s all about ME is all I hear. She wasn’t asking for much, just a few months of not publicly dating so she can dance her first ever lead role and he twists it by playing victim, while outwardly gaslighting her verbally.
And the weird thing? This happens 88% in. Cord is completely fine before then, then he randomly becomes a shitty person right at the end?
Cord is a manipulating selfish gaslighter who deserves to die alone and never find love with anyone ever. I get it, trauma and triggers are a real thing. I agree that you cannot ask something of someone if it is traumatizing. But Allegra truly was not asking for much or asking for anything traumatizing, she was just asking for TIME. Just a few months of their relationship being lowkey.
But he does mental gymnastics somehow by twisting that request into basically saying “you don’t care about me, you’re choosing ballet over me, you don’t respect my trauma” things she NEVER said or even implied. Gaslighting aside he can’t even be willing to date her on a lowkey level for a few months so she can live her dream she’s worked 10 years towards. The audacity! How dare she not stop her entire life and hard work and dreams in its tracks because it makes Cord him uncomfortable! Doesn’t she know it’s all about Cord and the world revolves around him? 😂
Cord’s friend literally tells him, this is YOUR fault and he responds by flipping him off. And still doesn’t believe him. And even repeats “this isn’t my fault” in his internal monologue. Right after his best friend straight up tells him he’s the one who fucked up. It takes forever him to even believe his friend that yeah it was his fault despite it being obvious. Sorry but no one THIS EMOTIONALLY DUMB that will ever find themselves in a lasting relationship, so clearly this relationship won’t last. If anything Allegra was a pushover for pining over a man so shitty.
I do not give 1 star reviews lightly. I almost gave this a 2 stars simply because I love ballet. But it didn’t feel right. If a book frustrated me this badly, I can’t even give it a 2 stars. Which I hate because I truly loved Change Of Heart so much. I just was not into this at all unfortunately.
Thank you to Netgalley and GP Putnam for sending me an advanced copy in return for my honest review.
So it pains me to say that the romance in this was worst most frustrating romance novels I’ve ever read.
Some background first. I’m sure you’ve read the synopsis and you’re probably wondering why a ballerina needs to have sex appeal, something completely irrelevant to the classical ballet. For pieces like Swan Lake or Nutcracker, grace, poise, and technique are what directors look for, not sex appeal. However, the artistic director of Allegra’s ballet company is pitching a new and original idea about a destitute courtesan who is caught between a penniless writer who loves her and a rich prince who is cruel and heartless. Ballet has always been elegant but never before has it been sexy, and this director wants to change that. Allegra has been dancing for a whopping ten years and is way past due for a principal role in her ballet company. She is determined to do whatever it takes to become a leading lady, including asking for help from a male performer who oozes the sex appeal she needs for this role. In return for his help, she promises to help him choreograph something for his show.
Sounds fun, sounds great, sounds like a cutesy romcom plot. And it more or less was that, until the last 88% where the mmc showed his true colors. I’m not going to reveal any specific details for spoilers but I am going to talk about the ending conflict. Rant incoming. And it’s going to be long.
CORD WAS ONE OF THE WORST IF NOT THE WORST MALE MC’S IVE EVER READ. I understand and respect triggers. I understand and respect trauma. But that doesn’t change the fact that Cord was acting completely unreasonable, putting someone he supposedly loved in an impossible situation. I respect Cord having triggers, but making someone choose between their dreams and a relationship when they WEREN’T ASKING FOR MUCH? And instead gaslit her after giving her an ultimatum when he KNOWS ballet is her life? It’s shitty, manipulative, and selfish. I just couldn’t with the gaslighting. The whole “you care about ballet moooooore than meeeeee because you’re not willing to give up your whole dream that you’ve spent your whole life working towards, to make me feel comfortable!”
This is all because when she makes one request, for the sake of her dreams, requesting for him to just wait a few months of not dating out in public for reasons I won’t spoil, and he immediately jumps to “so you’re breaking up with me? You’re choosing ballet over me?” When she NEVER SAID THAT or even hinted towards it, but is making a request so that she can live her ballerina dreams. But he immediately responds with “you’re breaking up with me! You’re choosing ballet over ME”.
The whole “I knew you would choose ballet over me!” thing is massively dumb because Allegra made it clear to him, verbally, from the beginning ballet that would always be her priority. So you can’t even blame this on a communication issue because SHE DID COMMUNICATE, he KNEW and was ok with it, until he decided he wasn’t when it required sacrifice and discomfort on his end. She calmly explains she was always honest that ballet is her priority and it doesn’t mean she cares about him any less, the fact that she doesn’t want to put her dreams on hold to make Cord’s annoying ass feel more comfortable.
But Cord the manipulator does mental gymnastics and twists “I’ve always been honest that ballet has always been my priority but it doesn’t mean I care about you any less” into “you don’t care about me anymore” somehow lol. Like he literally responds right after with that. She makes a request he doesn’t wanna abide by and it becomes “you’re choosing ballet over me, you don’t care about me anymore!”
And after all that gaslighting, HE THEN GIVES HER AN ULTIMATUM as if that isn’t enough. He tells her it’s either him or ballet, telling her she has to give up her dream, her entire life, something she’s been working towards for a decade? For a guy she barely even knows still? And right after that tells her “this is the choice you’re making” essentially putting all the blame on her and saying all of this is completely her fault? As if the gaslighting and ultimatum weren’t enough? Plz fuck all the way off. And he has the audacity to internally think “she doesn’t know what she’s doing to me, putting me in the same traumatizing situation” me me me it’s all about ME is all I hear. She wasn’t asking for much, just a few months of not publicly dating so she can dance her first ever lead role and he twists it by playing victim, while outwardly gaslighting her verbally.
And the weird thing? This happens 88% in. Cord is completely fine before then, then he randomly becomes a shitty person right at the end?
Cord is a manipulating selfish gaslighter who deserves to die alone and never find love with anyone ever. I get it, trauma and triggers are a real thing. I agree that you cannot ask something of someone if it is traumatizing. But Allegra truly was not asking for much or asking for anything traumatizing, she was just asking for TIME. Just a few months of their relationship being lowkey.
But he does mental gymnastics somehow by twisting that request into basically saying “you don’t care about me, you’re choosing ballet over me, you don’t respect my trauma” things she NEVER said or even implied. Gaslighting aside he can’t even be willing to date her on a lowkey level for a few months so she can live her dream she’s worked 10 years towards. The audacity! How dare she not stop her entire life and hard work and dreams in its tracks because it makes Cord him uncomfortable! Doesn’t she know it’s all about Cord and the world revolves around him? 😂
Cord’s friend literally tells him, this is YOUR fault and he responds by flipping him off. And still doesn’t believe him. And even repeats “this isn’t my fault” in his internal monologue. Right after his best friend straight up tells him he’s the one who fucked up. It takes forever him to even believe his friend that yeah it was his fault despite it being obvious. Sorry but no one THIS EMOTIONALLY DUMB that will ever find themselves in a lasting relationship, so clearly this relationship won’t last. If anything Allegra was a pushover for pining over a man so shitty.
I do not give 1 star reviews lightly. I almost gave this a 2 stars simply because I love ballet. But it didn’t feel right. If a book frustrated me this badly, I can’t even give it a 2 stars. Which I hate because I truly loved Change Of Heart so much. I just was not into this at all unfortunately.
Thank you to Netgalley and GP Putnam for sending me an advanced copy in return for my honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 24, 2026
Toe to Toe was fun, just not life-altering. Allegra is in full “girl has one goal and zero chill” mode, and Cord is basically the human version of a smirk. Their chemistry was there, but it never fully hit that swoony level I wanted. Like… I liked them, I just wasn’t feral about them.
The dance world stuff was actually my favorite part (as someone that grew up doing dance) super vivid and felt real, but some pacing moments dragged, and Allegra’s inner monologue got a little repetitive. I wanted more emotional depth and less “I must be perfect or the universe collapses” cliche ballerina thoughts.
Still, it’s an easy, entertaining read with some cute moments. Not a new fave, not a flop, just one of those books you finish, shrug a little, and think, “yeah, that was fine.”
Thank you NetGalley and publishers for this arc
The dance world stuff was actually my favorite part (as someone that grew up doing dance) super vivid and felt real, but some pacing moments dragged, and Allegra’s inner monologue got a little repetitive. I wanted more emotional depth and less “I must be perfect or the universe collapses” cliche ballerina thoughts.
Still, it’s an easy, entertaining read with some cute moments. Not a new fave, not a flop, just one of those books you finish, shrug a little, and think, “yeah, that was fine.”
Thank you NetGalley and publishers for this arc
January 3, 2026
I really enjoyed this I just didn’t love anything about it.
March 7, 2026
˗ˏˋ 4 stars ⟡ ݁₊ .
i was completely hooked since the very first page and managed to finish it in a couple of hours! i was literally so invested in allegra and cord's relationship ahaha.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧• allegra hart
honestly she's a character that i look up to, she's literally so hardworking and determined in ballet. i loved how she always stayed true to herself and didn't stop her passion/love for ballet just because she met a boy. i also really liked watching her grow confident in herself through cord's "assignments".
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧• cord donovan
he's kinda down bad gone for her since the very beginning. i'd say he's confident but not to the point that he's portrayed as an arrogant asshole. i liked the idea of him being a former ballet dancer turned male stripper and learning about why he's anti-ballet. oh and he goes to therapy so extra points for him!
i also love the little friend group with noah and lucy coming together at the very end! (i freaking called it!) lowkey want their book & backstory now..
i gotta say i really hated david and him sexual harassing allegra. honestly i got a little mad at allegra for not saying something and standing up for herself but at the same time i get it.. i just felt so bad for her but im happy that david got what he deserved at the very end!
oh and i liked how there was a bi representation with allegra & chloe although it was just briefly mentioned
⤷ thank you to netgalley, the publisher and the author for providing me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
︶︶︶⊹︶︶︶˗ˋ୨♡୧ˊ˗︶︶︶⊹︶︶︶
₊˚⊹♡ pre-read ♡⊹˚₊ ↴
welp i'm finally picking this up since the book is coming out in 3 days lol.. also male stripper x ballet dancer??? i'm SAT
i was completely hooked since the very first page and managed to finish it in a couple of hours! i was literally so invested in allegra and cord's relationship ahaha.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧• allegra hart
honestly she's a character that i look up to, she's literally so hardworking and determined in ballet. i loved how she always stayed true to herself and didn't stop her passion/love for ballet just because she met a boy. i also really liked watching her grow confident in herself through cord's "assignments".
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧• cord donovan
he's kinda down bad gone for her since the very beginning. i'd say he's confident but not to the point that he's portrayed as an arrogant asshole. i liked the idea of him being a former ballet dancer turned male stripper and learning about why he's anti-ballet. oh and he goes to therapy so extra points for him!
i also love the little friend group with noah and lucy coming together at the very end! (i freaking called it!) lowkey want their book & backstory now..
i gotta say i really hated david and him sexual harassing allegra. honestly i got a little mad at allegra for not saying something and standing up for herself but at the same time i get it.. i just felt so bad for her but im happy that david got what he deserved at the very end!
oh and i liked how there was a bi representation with allegra & chloe although it was just briefly mentioned
⤷ thank you to netgalley, the publisher and the author for providing me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
︶︶︶⊹︶︶︶˗ˋ୨♡୧ˊ˗︶︶︶⊹︶︶︶
₊˚⊹♡ pre-read ♡⊹˚₊ ↴
welp i'm finally picking this up since the book is coming out in 3 days lol.. also male stripper x ballet dancer??? i'm SAT
March 10, 2026
3.5 ⭐️ RTC
December 22, 2025
I LOVED Falon Ballard's first two books, but the next couple didn't impress me as much. With this book, though, we are SO BACK.
TOE TO TOE follows Allegra, an aspiring principal dancer at Ballet New York. When her director announces a new show, Allegra decides to do whatever it takes to show that she's ready for the role and her promotion. So, she enlists the help of Cord, the lead dancer in an all-male revue, to help her with her confidence and sexuality, in exchange for helping him choreograph a new duet for his show.
There are several trigger warnings for this book that should be heeded: workplace sexual harassment on-page, references to past sexual assault (off-page), awareness of eating habits (though, notably, not an eating disorder--just awareness of what she's eating), panic attacks.
I have such a soft spot for dance stories, and this was no exception! I really enjoyed reading about both Cord and Allegra's dancing and the differences and similarities in their backgrounds.
The chemistry between these two was OFF THE CHARTS. Immediately, you could feel the connection between these two, and I was absolutely hooked. I was completely invested in this story and blew through it quickly!
The characterization of Cord, Allegra, and their cast of friends was great. The antagonists of the story--Allegra's director and her mother--were also well-written with how much they both frustrated me. Cord and Allegra's personal and romantic journeys felt honest and realistic, though the logic behind the third-act breakup felt a little flimsy to me.
In terms of LGBT representation, several of our main cast of characters claim to be bisexual, which I always love to see, but that included Allegra, and there was no substance behind that claim that makes it actually inclusive or representative, in my opinion. Cord and Allegra's sisters, though, I loved and really enjoyed seeing their representation!
I was a little frustrated that Allegra refuses to report the sexual harassment from her director for fear of being "blackballed," but at the end of the story, If it was that easy and anonymous, why didn't she do it herself and save herself from all of the trouble that he caused?
The ending, in general, I did find a bit rushed, but I liked how it turned out, which lessened some of my complaints.
Overall, I did really enjoy this story, and I could see myself rereading it in the future. Definitely be aware of the trigger warnings though, and take care of yourself first and foremost!
Thank you to Netgalley and G.P. Putnam's Sons for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
TOE TO TOE follows Allegra, an aspiring principal dancer at Ballet New York. When her director announces a new show, Allegra decides to do whatever it takes to show that she's ready for the role and her promotion. So, she enlists the help of Cord, the lead dancer in an all-male revue, to help her with her confidence and sexuality, in exchange for helping him choreograph a new duet for his show.
There are several trigger warnings for this book that should be heeded: workplace sexual harassment on-page, references to past sexual assault (off-page), awareness of eating habits (though, notably, not an eating disorder--just awareness of what she's eating), panic attacks.
I have such a soft spot for dance stories, and this was no exception! I really enjoyed reading about both Cord and Allegra's dancing and the differences and similarities in their backgrounds.
The chemistry between these two was OFF THE CHARTS. Immediately, you could feel the connection between these two, and I was absolutely hooked. I was completely invested in this story and blew through it quickly!
The characterization of Cord, Allegra, and their cast of friends was great. The antagonists of the story--Allegra's director and her mother--were also well-written with how much they both frustrated me. Cord and Allegra's personal and romantic journeys felt honest and realistic, though the logic behind the third-act breakup felt a little flimsy to me.
In terms of LGBT representation, several of our main cast of characters claim to be bisexual, which I always love to see, but that included Allegra, and there was no substance behind that claim that makes it actually inclusive or representative, in my opinion. Cord and Allegra's sisters, though, I loved and really enjoyed seeing their representation!
I was a little frustrated that Allegra refuses to report the sexual harassment from her director for fear of being "blackballed," but at the end of the story, If it was that easy and anonymous, why didn't she do it herself and save herself from all of the trouble that he caused?
The ending, in general, I did find a bit rushed, but I liked how it turned out, which lessened some of my complaints.
Overall, I did really enjoy this story, and I could see myself rereading it in the future. Definitely be aware of the trigger warnings though, and take care of yourself first and foremost!
Thank you to Netgalley and G.P. Putnam's Sons for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 25, 2025
Toe to Toe was a quick and fun read, with mentions and on page, on the job sexual harassment. Some readers may have issues with how our fmc, Allegra handled it, but like all things in life, we handle only as much as we can at the time, and she does her best. Allegra is a ballerina in NY and wants to audition for a part she’s not quite made for. On the night of her sister’s bachelorette party Allegra meets sexy club owner Cord. He owns and directs a male review or strip show to those who don’t have meek sensibilities. We find out he has a painful past that is all about ballet so as much as the attraction between them hits home runs all day long, he can’t mentally deal with her job, and Allegra has worked hard for where she is. I loved Allegra and how strong she was to keep doing what she loves, and for growing a backbone with her mom. Crap mom alert!!! And stupid Cord just needed his twin to knock sense in him. His character was fun, loving and very determined to make something of himself. Which goes with Allegras dream of being prima ballerina. I just love the ballerina trope, going to add it to my rotation.
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC, these opinions, though, I’m rambling, are all mine.
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC, these opinions, though, I’m rambling, are all mine.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
✨️ARC REVIEW ✨️
Allegra has been a ballerina her whole life she has one last chance to make principal ballerina in the New York ballet. She deals with a sleezy director and a shaming mother. The audition is coming, and she is told she's not sexy enough! Then she meets Cord. I just loved this story, especially the chemistry between Allegra and Cord, the dancing, and the confidence building.
Check your triggers!
Thank you, Netgalley, and Putnam Publishing for this ARC . This is an honest review.
Allegra has been a ballerina her whole life she has one last chance to make principal ballerina in the New York ballet. She deals with a sleezy director and a shaming mother. The audition is coming, and she is told she's not sexy enough! Then she meets Cord. I just loved this story, especially the chemistry between Allegra and Cord, the dancing, and the confidence building.
Check your triggers!
Thank you, Netgalley, and Putnam Publishing for this ARC . This is an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
1.25☆ | I had high hopes for this one. My sister has read a few books from this author before and really enjoyed them. And we were supposed to be buddy reading this one but never got to it because the publish date was so close.
𝑻𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒈𝒉𝒕𝒔:
So I think my first problem with this book was their names. Like...Allegra and Cord?? What kind of names are those?? 😭 Every time I read her name, I misread it and thought it was 'allergy'..
Also, this girl is over here contradicting herself. On chapter 10 she's saying, and I quote, "I don't have time for a fling with a stripper." and 𝘛𝘏𝘌𝘕𝘕 on chapter TWELVE she literally goes and says "First of all, he's not a stripper." LIKE GIRLLL. Make up your mind. In just two chapters you're over here saying he isn't one when you yourself just said that he is?? Make it make sense.
Cord was okayyy, but he was slightly better than Allegra, she was awful (imo). She was selfish and didn't give anything back to him. They're both immature and childish.
A thing that annoyed me was his nickname for her. Slippers? Really? How...special. Like I get it, shes a ballerina, but like..still. Couldn't think of anything better?
Allegra also claimed to hate pink so much but like, everything she wears seemed to be pink😭
Just ughhhh, this book🤦♀️I have so much more to say but also literally nothing to say about it.
𝑶𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒂𝒍𝒍:
Definitely a let down, I was hoping for more from this book. Especially because my sister enjoyed some of the authors other books so much. The cover was also so promising.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for allowing me to have an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an advanced copy!
Ebook - 2 🌶 - 1.25☆
𝑻𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒈𝒉𝒕𝒔:
So I think my first problem with this book was their names. Like...Allegra and Cord?? What kind of names are those?? 😭 Every time I read her name, I misread it and thought it was 'allergy'..
Also, this girl is over here contradicting herself. On chapter 10 she's saying, and I quote, "I don't have time for a fling with a stripper." and 𝘛𝘏𝘌𝘕𝘕 on chapter TWELVE she literally goes and says "First of all, he's not a stripper." LIKE GIRLLL. Make up your mind. In just two chapters you're over here saying he isn't one when you yourself just said that he is?? Make it make sense.
Cord was okayyy, but he was slightly better than Allegra, she was awful (imo). She was selfish and didn't give anything back to him. They're both immature and childish.
A thing that annoyed me was his nickname for her. Slippers? Really? How...special. Like I get it, shes a ballerina, but like..still. Couldn't think of anything better?
Allegra also claimed to hate pink so much but like, everything she wears seemed to be pink😭
Just ughhhh, this book🤦♀️I have so much more to say but also literally nothing to say about it.
𝑶𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒂𝒍𝒍:
Definitely a let down, I was hoping for more from this book. Especially because my sister enjoyed some of the authors other books so much. The cover was also so promising.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for allowing me to have an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an advanced copy!
Ebook - 2 🌶 - 1.25☆
April 5, 2026
This one’s for the magic mike girls
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